10 Things You Should Never Buy Used

Buying used items is one of the top ways to consistently save money on things you need. However, not every used item is a good value.

Here are 10 things we think are better when bought new:

1. Cribs

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Back in 2011, the government changed safety standards for baby cribs in response to infant deaths related to old designs. Whereas drop-side cribs used to be common, they are now banned. Plus, the new rules require stronger supports and hardware.

The problem with buying a used crib is the chance you might end up with one of the millions that have been recalled. It may be easy to avoid drop-side cribs, but unless the seller can provide the original sales information, you may not know whether your purchase meets the new safety requirements.

Better safe than sorry, so we say skip the used crib and invest in a new, safer one.

2. Car seats

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Car seats are another no-no when it comes to buying used. Again, safety is the reason.

A used car seat could have been in an accident or exposed to extreme elements, either of which could compromise the seat’s durability. In addition, older seats may not be made to the latest safety standards.

You could save a few bucks and get a used seat or spend a little more and give your child the best protection possible. If you can’t afford a new seat, contact your local social services agency or community wellness organization. They may have leads on programs offering free or low-cost car seats.

3. Helmets

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Another safety item you want to buy new is a helmet, such as for riding a bike, motorcycle or skateboard. Here, the main concern with buying used is that the helmet’s ability to protect you could have been compromised in an unrevealed accident.

4. Computers

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A used computer is a giant question mark. You don’t necessarily know how it’s been used, and unless you’re tech-savvy, you might not be able to see what programs are lurking on the inside.

Laptops in particular are prone to all sorts of abuse, from being banged around in a bag to being dropped on the ground.

There is one exception when it comes to buying used computers and laptops: refurbished computers, which have been inspected and cleared for resale. Buying refurbished items can be a safe way to get a bargain on used electronics.

5. Digital cameras

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Like laptops, a secondhand digital camera could also have been abused. It’s hard to look at one and determine how well its previous owner cared for it.

If you just need a basic point-and-click camera or video recorder, new models aren’t all that expensive. Or, you could just use your smartphone and skip the expense completely.

6. Shoes

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If you’re interested in having comfy feet and minimizing back pain, you might want to skip past the used shoe section at the thrift store. Shoes often conform to their first owner’s feet, which can make them uncomfortable for you.

7. Makeup

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I know, some of you are probably shocked to think that anyone would wear used makeup. And yet you can find used mascara, lipstick and eye shadow at thrift stores, garage sales and on the internet.

Used makeup can be a completely harmless bargain — or it might contain scary bacteria or spread disease. We say it’s not worth the risk, and you’re better off buying your beauty products new.

8. Mattresses

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Like shoes, mattresses tend to conform to the bodies of their users. Buying used might mean you end up with a lumpy bed that leaves you tossing and turning all night long.

Even worse, a used mattress can harbor all sorts of nasty things like allergens, dust mites and bedbugs.

9. Stuffed animals

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Stuffed animals are another item that can contain dust mites and allergens. In addition, some animals may have safety issues, such as eyes that pop off and become a choking hazard.

Buying used means you can end up with a toy that has been recalled or one that harbors unpleasantness that you may not want to bring into your house.

10. Underwear

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The final item on our list makes the cut solely for the “eww factor.” Some people might be concerned that used underwear could carry bacteria or germs, but I’m not convinced it’s anything that couldn’t be killed with a hot water wash and bleach.

The bigger question is why would you want to wear someone else’s stretched out, used undies when so many stores will sell you a new pack for $10? All except the most destitute among us can certainly scrounge up that much money.

What else would you add to this list? Leave a comment below or head to our Facebook page to tell us what items you only buy new.